In the summer, you are prone to heat rash, molluscum, as well as many other terrible and unbearable rashes that seem to worsen in the night. Here is how to decrease the itch.


Steps

1. Take a cold shower. This will tend to cool the skin and decrease the sensitivity of the nerves temporarily. Wash the affected area thoroughly with a mild soap, but avoid scrubbing too much, which may increase the itch.
2. Take some aspirin or ibuprofen. These may decrease the sensitivity to an itch caused by inflammation and also help you to relax. Wait fifteen to twenty minutes to see whether your condition gets better.
3. Look closely at possible causes of the itch. The following are a few of the common sources of itching and basic techniques for dealing with them.
   • Allergic reactions
     • Poison Ivy, Oak, or Sumac: Try using calamine lotion. Gently apply enough to completely cover the area, and allow it to dry. A topical cream with an antihistamine such as Benadryl or a 0.1% hydrocortisone ointment can be effective in decreasing discomfort as well.
     • Generalised skin allergies: Again, a 0.1% hydrocortisone ointment or antihistamine cream can offer some relief. For allergies of any type, an oral, over-the-counter antihistamine can offer relief, and many cause drowsiness, which can help you fall asleep despite the itch.
     • Insect bites: Apply denatured alcohol, rubbing alcohol, or witch hazel to bites. If bites appear irritated or inflamed, use an antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin to treat possible infection.
   • Heat rash: Dust thoroughly with talcum powder. A medicated powder will cool and dry the area, usually improving symptoms immediately. Leave the area uncovered if possible. Avoid using ointments and creams on heat rash.
4. Apply a spray such as Solarcaine, which can be found at any pharmacy or drug store. These products have an analgesic ingredient that may reduce the sensitivity of the nerve cells to the itch.

Tips

• Listen to music or something relaxing to help you fall asleep.
• Avoid caffeine. It will keep you up and itchy.
• A good long-term solution is Vipassana Meditation.
• The best thing for severe itching is capsaicin. Products with at least 0.75% work the best.
• Another good calming moisturizing cream

Warnings

• Make sure that you do not take too much aspirin, apply too much cream, or use too much Solarcaine.
• Solarcaine is not for internal use. If an accident happens, try to wash it out and call a poison control center immediately!